New cycling facilities for thousands of pupils and students

Improved cycling facilities are set to be installed for thousands of school pupils and students.

Scottish Government funding will see cycle parking, showers and changing facilities installed at colleges and universities.

Grants will also provide lockers, maps, maintenance equipment and signage.

Funding for secondary schools will provide bikes, maintenance equipment, and training to incorporate bicycle maintenance into the curriculum.

A combined total of £294,814 from the Scottish Government’s active travel budget will cover 51 secondary schools, university and college campuses.

More than 261,000 people will benefit from the funding for new or improved cycling facilities, according to ministers.

Transport secretary Michael Matheson said: “Walking and cycling is key to protecting our air quality, our climate and our health.

“In terms of the potential reach of these improvements, it is encouraging that over 261,000 people can now take advantage of better cycling facilities where they study or work.”

The programme of funding will be delivered by Cycling Scotland.

Kath Brough, head of behaviour change at Cycling Scotland, said: “Over 50 secondary schools, and college and university campuses will soon have access to new bike parking, upgraded showering facilities and pool bikes, supporting over 261,000 people to choose to cycle for everyday journeys.”